Desert Palm, Samāna Spa, & Rare: A triple threat close to town.

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Having lived in Dubai for over ten years, I have been fortunate to visit Desert Palm on a few occasions (including a previous dining experience at Rare), and have always been impressed with how out of town it manages to feel, with remaining so close to the city.  For those not in the know, essentially, if you drive just a few minutes past Dragon Mart, nearish to the new Dubai Safari, you’ll reach this urban oasis.  In a city full of large properties, Desert Palm, with a limited number of keys (including suites and villas) feels immediately intimate and relaxed, without even trying.  Overlooking polo fields — yes, you read that right — this is definitely outside the norm.

Feeling good about today! Finished writing a book, submitted an article, went to the gym, and really looking forward to my trip to Tbilisi on Wednesday. • Of course, I’d be feeling even better if I was back @desertpalmdxb and enjoying my private pool. 😎

A post shared by Courtney Brandt (@atozaatar) on May 28, 2018 at 2:17am PDT

Let’s break it down, shall we?

Room

Let’s get one thing straight — you will be hard-pressed to find an arrangement like this anywhere in Dubai.  Our one bedroom villa, complete with a private pool, was spacious, quiet, and an absolute delight.  Were there a few minor things I would change about the layout?  Sure.  Did those details have any impact on my enjoyment?  They did not.  Ren toiletries, an outdoor shower, sun loungers and other outdoor seating really made this an incredible offer, all just thirty minutes from our place in JVC.  You can check out a permanent look at a tour of our villa in the highlights section of my Instagram account.  Our favorite part was (obviously) the pool, because, what’s not to like about having a completely private pool?

Dining

If there is any room for improvement at the property, it’s in the dining category.  As we stayed during Ramadan, there was only a buffet with main courses on offer for iftar/dinner.  Unfortunately, both of our mains were whelming at best, such that I didn’t even finish half of my risotto and Hubs’ lamb looked…well, I’ve never seen lamb presented that way.  As lovely as the view overlooking the polo fields, given my previous experience with Rare was also a bit mixed, and there are really no other options close to the resort, this is an oversight which should be addressed.  You can dine in the villa — besides the usual room service, there is also a private BBQ which can be arranged.  Additionally, there seemed to be some confusion as to when exactly the Red Bar started serving.  Of course, these are all very first world problems, but I’d love to see something like the approach at the Le Quartier Francais in Franschhoek, where the destination is a hub for both a luxury stay and dining experience.  As Dubai has nothing similar on offer, it would be aa significant advantage for Desert Palm.

Spa

While at the property, I was more than happy to get out of the dust and sand and enjoy a half day experience at the Samāna Spa, long known for being one of the best spas in the city.  My day included a 1 x 60-minute massage (guests can choose which style they prefer) and either a body scrub or facial.  I decided on the massage (Balinese) and an express facial as my skin has been feeling dull lately, and left feeling relaxed and pampered.  Both hotel and spa guests are welcome to lounge in the sauna, ice room, or shower experience before or after treatments.  I spent some time sipping my tea and reading magazines in the cozy waiting room.

Amenities

As Hubs and I have been on a bit of a health kick, we actually woke up early enough to get to the gym before breakfast.  I was impressed with the modern collection of equipment, which was well above average (and really, better than the gym we currently attend).  With lots of natural light and views overlooking the paddocks, it was a great, if sweaty, start to our day.  Other amenities include access to horseback riding and polo lessons, a large public pool area, and tennis court.

Would I go back?  If I wanted a weekend where I didn’t feel like seeing anyone, Desert Palm would be my first choice.  With so much room in the villa, it would make the perfect getaway (without going far or getting on a plane).

Who is the Desert Palm best for?  I think this would be an excellent getaway for first-time parents were nervous to go far away, but wanted to ‘get away.’  Additionally, if your crew preferred something very private, then I wouldn’t look any further.  Finally, it’s the right size to book the property for a memorable wedding.

Where is your favorite staycation destination in the UAE?

A to Za’atar was a guest of Desert Palm, Rare, and Samana Spa.  Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.